• Randy Carlyle says that the emotional crash suffered by Ryan Getzlaf, Corey Perry and Scott Niedermayer after Canada's gold in 2010 was a key factor in the Ducks' post-Olympic failure. Carlyle is one of several NHL coaches who fear the same thing happening to their squads this time around.

• This year, no matter what the outcome in Sochi, it will be tough for the Ducks to maintain their momentum after the Games.

• The NHL's roster freeze is in effect, but Senators GM Bryan Murray is keeping his cell phone handy while on vacation in case anyone wants to talk trades. With some blueline depth available, you have to think that Ottawa will be involved to some degree before the March 5 trade deadline.

• Canucks GM Mike Gillis has a message for Vancouver's fans after seven straight losses to end the pre-Olympic portion of the season: Be cool, honey bunnies.